Patna : Preparations for Durga Puja 2026 have intensified across Bihar, with the Fire Department putting special safety arrangements in place as around 20,000 puja pandals are expected to be set up across the state.
According to Fire Department DIG Manoj Kumar Nat, around 1,500 of the pandals are expected to be large installations. In Patna, around 1,500 pandals have been registered so far, including approximately 100 to 150 large pandals.
The department has stepped up inspections and issued safety instructions to puja committees ahead of the festival.
Patna Divided Into Four Fire-Safety Zones
For faster response during Durga Puja, Patna has been divided into four zones.
Fire tenders will be deployed across these zones so that emergency teams can reach affected locations quickly in case of a fire or other emergency.
The department is also monitoring fire-safety arrangements at larger pandals, where the movement of large crowds is expected.
Special Rescue Teams Being Prepared
The Fire Department is preparing special rescue teams to respond not only to fire incidents but also to situations in which people may need to be evacuated from crowded areas.
Officials said safety arrangements at major pandals are being monitored regularly as part of the preparations.
The focus is on ensuring that emergency teams can respond quickly during the festival.
Two Exit Gates Mandatory At Pandals
The Fire Department has instructed puja committees to follow basic fire-safety measures at pandals.
At least two exit gates must be provided at every pandal to facilitate evacuation in an emergency.
Committees have also been instructed to keep sand and water readily available at the pandal premises.
The department has further directed organisers not to conduct havans inside pandals, as part of measures to reduce fire risks.
Instructions Issued Across Bihar
Fire Department DIG Manoj Kumar Nat said necessary instructions have been issued to officials across all districts.
District Fire Officers have been directed to ensure that puja committees comply with prescribed safety standards.
The department is also holding regular virtual meetings with District Fire Officers to review preparations and address safety-related issues before the festival.
Focus On Prevention And Quick Response
With thousands of pandals expected across Bihar, the Fire Department’s preparations are focused on fire prevention, emergency response and safe evacuation.
The department is monitoring large pandals in particular and coordinating with district-level officials to ensure that required safety arrangements are in place before the celebrations begin.
The measures are intended to help ensure that Durga Puja celebrations take place safely while allowing emergency teams to respond quickly if any incident occurs.
